Excessive Heat Warning in Effect Through Friday

Temperatures across the state are expected to spike within the next few days, and residents are being urged to stay safe in the hot weather. 

The heat index is estimated to hit in the upper 90’s, and may possibly even reach 100 degrees or higher, according to the National Weather Service.

The Hazlet Office of Emergency Management has activated the Emergency Operations Plan at its lowest level of alert, said Township Administrator Brian Valentino on Wednesday morning.

"We are monitoring weather updates and other hazards as transmitted by the National Weather Service and the New Jersey Regional Operations Intelligence Center (ROIC) located at New Jersey State Police Headquarters," said Valentino, in an email.

Hazlet Township has also opened its swim club today, three days earlier than usual. 

Fortunately, Holmdel District 8th Grade and High School Graduation ceremonies will be held Wednesday in the air-conditioned Collins Arena at Brookdale Community College, said Principal William Loughran, so no changes for weather are anticipated.  

The excessive heat can cause a variety of health issues for people of all ages, said State Police Superintendent Col. Rick Fuentes, who also serves as the state's director of the Office of Emergency Management. They can include "heat cramps, heat exhaustion, heat stroke and sometimes death," he said in a press release.

He added, "These threats can be minimized and eliminated if we practice heat-related precautions and guidelines."

New Jersey Health and Senior Services Commissioner Mary E. O'Dowd said the risk is especially high for the elderly and children. "Hot, dry skin, an absence of sweat and a rapid and strong pulse are all signs of heat stroke," she said. "If you have elderly family members, friends or neighbors, be sure to check in on them to make sure they are keeping cool, especially if they live alone."

There are several basic steps people can take to ensure their safety during the hot weather provided by Fuentes and O'Dowd. Among them are:

• Stay indoors in air conditioning as much as possible.
• If you do go outside stay in the shade.
• If your home is not air conditioned, spend at least two hours daily at an air-conditioned mall, library or other public place. 
• Wear sunscreen outside, along with loose-fitting, light-colored clothes that cover as much skin as possible
• Drink water regularly even if you are not thirsty.  Limit alcoho and sugary drinks that speed dehydration.
• Never leave children or pets alone in the car.
• Avoid exertion during the hottest part of the day.
• Take a cool shower or bath.
• Be a good neighbor, check on elderly and people with disabilities in your community who may need assistance keeping cool.

For more information check out the state's OEM website or the National Weather Service Health Safety page.